ORANJESTAD, ARUBA – The recently concluded concerts by Tania and Chris Kross at Cas di Cultura were a resounding success, with both nights completely sold out. The Aruban audience was treated to an unforgettable musical experience, enthusiastically enjoying the performances from the very first note until the final encore, where calls for more music filled the air.

The exceptional band accompanying Tania and Chris Kross featured talented musicians including Christopher Rodulfo on congas and percussion, Schlipken Croes on minor percussion, Pierre Koolman on drums, Johnny Scharbaay on piano, and Ivan Quandus on bass.

The overwhelming positive response to these high-caliber performances has sparked a conversation within the Aruban music scene. Many attendees commented on the need for more concerts of this quality, showcasing the rich talent and beauty of Aruba’s and Curacao’s own music. The success of Tania and Chris Kross highlights the deep appreciation for local artists and the desire for more opportunities to experience their artistry live.

Mark your calendars for Wednesday, April 2nd and Thursday, April 3rd, 2025, for an extraordinary concert experience in Aruba!

Two renowned artists from Aruba and Curaçao are joining forces for a special performance: the acclaimed opera singer Tania Kross and the versatile pop and jazz guitarist Chris Kross.

Together, they will take the stage with a lineup of exceptional professional musicians, including:

• Johnny Scharbaay on piano
• Ivan Quandus on bass
• Chris Rodulfo on percussion
• Pierre Koolman on drums
• Schlipken Croes on minor percussion

Prepare to be captivated by a seamless fusion of pop, contemporary, classical, and jazz music. This promises to be a night of unforgettable melodies and masterful musicianship.

Tickets are available for purchase at Cas di Cultura, Superfood and pay.aw.

• Pre-sale Price: Awg 40.00
• Price at the Door: Awg 50.00

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness this unique collaboration of talent! Get your tickets early!

We’re still buzzing from the incredible cultural manifestation that took place on March 17, 2025, at Plaza Betico Croes! It was a night to remember, a true celebration of Aruban talent and cultural richness.

The plaza transformed into a stage for a show of truly grand proportions. Our local artists delivered performances that were nothing short of spectacular, showcasing a level of production that rivaled international standards. The energy was palpable, with the audience wholeheartedly supporting their homegrown talent.

From captivating musical performances to mesmerizing dance routines and theatrical displays, the evening was a vibrant tapestry of Aruban artistry. It was a powerful reminder of the immense creative force that resides within our island.

We extend our warmest congratulations to the dedicated organizers and everyone involved in bringing this remarkable show to life. Your hard work and passion created an unforgettable experience that will resonate with us all. This event truly underscored the depth and breadth of Aruba’s cultural heritage, and we are incredibly proud.

Yesterday, March 16, 2025, the much-anticipated Festival of Songs for Our Anthem and Flag took place in the adult category. A total of 16 participants presented their song dedicated to our anthem and flag. A large audience gathered to support their favorite singers.

Results:

Traditional Folk Category:

• 3rd Place: “Sinitibo Orguyoso” by the musical group Grupo Stimami, performed by Juanco Ignacio.
• 2nd Place: “Subi Caya Celebra” by the musical group Sabor Crioyo, performed by Jason Kelly.
• 1st Place: “Nostalgia” by the musical group Cultura 365, performed by Raquel Lampe.

Modern Folk Category:

• 3rd Place: “E Luz” by the musical group Grupo di Amigo, performed by Jerwin Hernandez & Zaina Falconi.
• 2nd Place: “Aruba mi Patria Sagrado” by the musical group Tipico X-Static, performed by Arelys Franken Domacasse.
• 1st Place & Overall Winner: “Rubiano mi Ruman” with musical accompaniment by Suona, performed by Jair Versprey & Jean Paul Lacle.

The celebrations continue tonight with the Cultural Manifestation, followed by the Official Protocol Ceremony tomorrow morning. Stay tuned for more updates and join us in honoring our anthem and flag through music and culture!

The celebration of Aruba’s National Anthem and Flag Day 2025 continued yesterday, March 15, 2025, at Plaza Betico with a vibrant cultural explosion. The evening featured a variety of performances, including:

Award-Winning Children’s Performances: Talented children who won prizes at the recent children’s National Anthem and Flag festival performed.

Youth Parliament Presentation: The Youth Parliament delivered an engaging presentation.

Grupo di Betico Concert: The popular Grupo di Betico band delivered an energetic concert lasting over an hour.

Claudius Phillips Performance: The night closed with a masterful performance by the renowned Claudius Phillips together with Grupo di Betico.

Upcoming Event:

The celebrations will continue with the National Anthem and Flag Festival 2025, adult category.

Oranjestad, Aruba – March 15, 2024 – The Plaza Libertador Betico Croes was alive with the sound of music on March 14th as the 22nd annual “Un canto pa nos Himno y Bandera” Children’s and Youth Festival took center stage. Young singers from across the island delivered spectacular performances, competing for top honors in their respective age categories.

The festival, a celebration of Aruban patriotism and musical talent, drew a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters. The event showcased original compositions dedicated to Aruba’s anthem and flag, highlighting the cultural richness and national pride of the island.

The competition was fierce, with each participant demonstrating exceptional vocal prowess and stage presence. The winners, as determined by a panel of esteemed judges, are as follows:

Category 4-6 Years:

• Overall Winner:
  • Name: Marie-Elize Faro
  • Title: Nos Aruba e ta
  • Composer: Zulaika Geerman
  • Arranger: Zulaika Geerman
• Second Place:
  • Name: Ziah-Amila Geerman
  • Title: Un paraiso
  • Composer: Luigi Cortes
  • Arranger: Luigi Cortes
• Third Place:
  • Name: Livaya Escalona
  • Title: Aruba, un isla cant’i lama
  • Composer: Erick Escalona / Zulaika Geerman
  • Arranger: Zulaika Geerman

Category 7-9 Years:

• Overall Winner:
  • Name: Elizeë Bislip
  • Title: Cera reda, hala den
  • Composer: Afranina Henriquez
  • Arranger: Zulaika Geerman
• Second Place:
  • Name: Adeliza Henriquez
  • Title: Aruba ban canta, ban baila
  • Composer: Zulaika Geerman
  • Arranger: Zulaika Geerman
• Third Place:
  • Name: Elias Kamperveen
  • Title: Ta di nos e ta
  • Composer: Zulaika Geerman
  • Arranger: Zulaika Geerman

Category 10-12 Years:

• Overall Winner:
  • Name: Brayden Elisabeth
  • Title: Stima mi lega
  • Composer: Rygel Isabella / Jonathan Thiel
  • Arranger: Rygel Isabella
• Second Place:
  • Name: Cary-ann Buera
  • Title: Fiesta di pueblo
  • Composer: Lurena Schwengle
  • Arranger: Diego Henriquez
• Third Place:
  • Name: Thaheeli Geerman
  • Title: Piscado
  • Composer: Gino Panneflek
  • Arranger: Gino Panneflek

Category 13-17 Years:

• Overall Winner:
  • Name: Reanne Ras
  • Title: Forsa di amor y emocion
  • Composer: Lurena Schwengle
  • Arranger: Raul Piar
• Second Place:
  • Name: Maria-Christina Petrocchi
  • Title: Tempo
  • Composer: Ronwayne Kock
  • Arranger: Denny Loefstop
• Third Place:
  • Name: Isdell Hyacinme
  • Title: Aruba abo ta
  • Composer: Jhon Freddy Tobon Montoya
  • Arranger: Jaderick Croes

“The performances were truly outstanding,” said a spokesperson for Comision Promove Cultura. “These young artists have demonstrated remarkable talent and dedication, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements.”

The festival not only provided a platform for young musicians to showcase their skills but also fostered a sense of community and national pride. The Commission for the Promotion of Culture extends its congratulations to all winners, finalists, and participants. Also would like to give recognition to all Composers, arrangers and bands who made it possible for the kids.

The Commission for the Promotion of Culture is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Aruba. Through various events and initiatives, the commission aims to foster artistic expression and cultivate a deeper appreciation for Aruban culture.

On Sunday, March 9, 2025, the debut concert of the youth ensemble “Circle of Fifth” took place at the Cas di Cultura Kleine zaal. The talented young musicians captivated a full house, showcasing their mastery of various instruments. Their repertoire spanned a diverse range of genres, including Jazz, Pop, Latin Jazz, Antillean music, and original compositions by their composer and guitarist, Alakina Gonzalez. The evening featured a guest appearance by renowned bass player Ivan Quandus and also two talented singer Osdelly Wester and Reanne Ras. Notably, the concert drew a significant number of young attendees, demonstrating an appreciation for high-quality music. Circle of fifth band member are : Elijah Wester on drums, Alakina Gonzalez Guitarist and singer, Derren Grant on congas, Christian Bonarriba on Piano and Sebastian Sanchez on minor percussion. The performance by Circle of Fifth indicates the presence of future musicians with international potential.

Stichting MUSICA recently held its highly anticipated Awards Night, honoring the exceptional talent of composers, arrangers, singers, and bands who triumphed at the Aruba Caiso and Soca Monarch 2025 and Carnival Season 71.

The evening started with a warm welcome from Stichting MUSICA President, Mrs. Edwinda Werleman, who expressed her sincere gratitude to each musician for their creative contributions. She emphasized the international caliber of the performances, which were showcased to a global audience via pay-per-view during the Aruba Caiso & Soca Monarch prefinals and final night.

Mrs. Werleman also acknowledged the crucial role of the media in promoting the event, as well as the unwavering support of all stakeholders who contributed to its success. She expressed her anticipation for continued collaboration in future endeavors.

Looking ahead, Mrs. Werleman announced the upcoming Caiso Festival in May 2025 and encouraged everyone to stay tuned for further details.

On Sunday, March 2nd, Aruba celebrated its 71st Carnival in a spectacle filled with luxury, color, feathers, glitter, music, and an nice atmosphere. The grand parade featured eight Carnival groups, each showcasing its unique theme with elaborate costumes and lively performances.

The event opened with Massive Brassband, setting the tone with its unique brass and drums sound, bringing the traditional brass band energy back to the heart of Carnival.

Participating Carnival Groups:

1. TOB Carnival Group – Theme: “World’s Carnival Bacchanal”
   • Accompanied by Shine Musi, Groovemasters, and Nfuzion
2. Dushi Carnival Group – Theme: “Dance in Paradise (Music Brings Us Together)”
   • Featured music by Duro and DJ Tdrick, with Jenifer v.d. Biezen on percussion
   • Included a nostalgic segment by North Stars Steel Orchestra
3. Champagne Carnival Group – Theme: “Amazing World of Wanderlust”
   • Supported by Tsunami, which implemented a specialized sound system to enhance the group’s full experience
4. Aruba Tourist Carnival Group – Theme: “Greek Mythology”
   • Accompanied by Youth Xtreme
5. Colours Carnival Group – Theme: “Wonders of the Elements”
   • Featured an entertainment trailer for an immersive experience
6. Los Laga Bai Carnival Group – Theme: “Eleganza Extravaganza”
   • Music by Robert y su Solo Banda Show
7. Empire Carnival Group – Theme: “An A.I. Trip to the Unknown”
   • Accompanied by Buleria
8. Royal Carnival Group – Theme: “The 7 Heavenly Virtues”
   • Music by NBO

Closing the festivities with an energetic Last Lap performance, IMPACT4PLAY kept the Carnival spirit alive until the final moments where SMAC and all participants of the 71th Carnival burned the Momo.

With its spectacular displays, dynamic performances, and festive atmosphere, Aruba’s 71st Carnival once again solidified its place among the world’s most extraordinary Carnival celebrations.

San Nicolas lit up last night with the LighParada di lus, bringing a lively and colorful celebration to the streets. Seven carnival groups participated, each showcasing creative themes and great energy.

The participating groups were:

1. TOB Carnival Group – Theme: “Burning Captainz” – With music by GrooveMasters, N’Fuzion, Tdrick, and Jenifer v.d. Biezen on percussion.
2. Dushi Carnival Group – Theme: “Viva La Vida” – Accompanied by Duro.
3. Aruba Tourist Carnival Group – Theme: “Bad Cupid Rock Edition” – With music by Youth Xtreme.
4. Champagne Carnival Group – Theme: “Amazing World of Wanderlust” – With music by Tsunami.
5. Royal Carnival Group – Theme: “Men in Black” – Accompanied by NBO.
6. Clours Carnival Group – Theme: “Wonders of the Elements” – With music by Entertainment Trailer.
7. Empire Carnival Group – Theme: “An A.I. Trip to the Unknown” – With music by Buleria.

This year’s Lighting Parade was a great success, bringing joy and excitement to Aruba’s carnival season. A big thank you to SMAC and all those who helped make this event happen!